Ocean Grove, New Jersey is steeped in history
Founded in 1869, Ocean Grove is a great destination for history buffs. Back in the 19th century, a methodist congregation discovered Ocean Groves’s stunning coastal atmosphere and decided it would be the perfect place to host recreational gatherings. Propping up tents for temporary stays to start, slowly but surely, Ocean Grove developed into a permanent town and community. Nonetheless, the community continues to carry on the tradition of tenting, with 114 year-round tents standing today.
Most of the town is, of course, constructed from sturdier traditional materials. However, many of these still harken back to the community’s early days with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. In fact, this tiny little town boasts the largest concentration of Victorian homes in the U.S. Strolling down Ocean Pathway, you’ll be transported back in time by historic cottages adorned with ornate trims and steep, gabled roofs.
Perhaps the town’s greatest historic feature of architecture is the Great Auditorium. Erected in 1894, this enormous wooden marvel was made to seat 10,000 people. Constructed before the advent of sound systems, it is equipped with unbelievable acoustics. If you can catch an organ or choir concert at the auditorium during your stay, you’ll be blown away.
What to do in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Ocean Grove, New Jersey is not only a place for you to get a taste of history, but it is also a place for you to relax and take on outdoor adventures. This seaside town offers a top-of-the-line beach for visitors to relax and unwind at. Unlike more urban beach settings, Ocean Grove is secluded from bustling commercialism and is geared toward family-friendly fun. Fortunately, with the quaint downtown Ocean Grove being just a couple of blocks away from the sand, food and drink are easy to snag whenever you want.
If you’re looking for something a little more lively, Asbury Park Beach is just a few minutes away from your stay in Ocean Grove. There, you can visit the old stomping grounds of legendary artists like Bruce Springsteen and listen to today’s upcoming bands at The Stone Pony music venue. Whenever you decide to visit Ocean Grove, be sure to check out the Ocean Grove Chamber of Commerce’s calendar. You’ll find there’s always a slew of local festivities for you to join alongside this fun and friendly community.
